Sheffield United manager Slavisa Jokanovic has made it clear he wants a decision from defender Kean Bryan on his Blades contract offer in quotes via Yorkshire Live, with the 24-year-old becoming a free agent last week on the expiry of his current deal.
The central defender made his breakthrough at the now-Championship side last season, making 13 appearances in the top flight and grabbing a winner against Manchester United at Old Trafford back in January, but his future now looks uncertain as he weighs up his next move.
Rivals West Brom and Fulham, who also suffered relegation from the top tier last season, are said to be interested in acquiring Bryan's services after last season's performances and this has left the Blades in a tricky situation.
Chris Basham and John Egan are experienced options for Jokanovic in South Yorkshire but with Ethan Ampadu's return to Chelsea after the expiry of his loan deal, Jack O'Connell not currently back to full fitness and Bryan's future remaining unresolved, they may decide to invest in a new centre-back as the new season approaches.
According to the Sheffield Star, Jokanovic is already organising meetings with wanted players, including Sander Berge and Jayden Bogle, to discover their true intentions this summer amid top-flight interest and the Serbian also waiting to hear back from the 24-year-old who is yet to make his decision.
In quotes via Yorkshire Live, the manager said of Bryan: "I don't know what is happening.
"I don't know if this guy wants to stay or if this guy wants to leave.
"I don't want this to complicate my team. He can go if he wants or he can offer his services to Sheffield United."
Premier League outfit Watford and promotion chasers Swansea City are also said to be vying for his signature.
The Verdict
With these recent comments from Jokanovic and two experienced central defenders in front of him, the 24-year-old may decide to sever his ties with Sheffield United and wait for offers from elsewhere after performing well last season.
His five potential destinations at this moment in time all look like attractive options, with the Blades, West Brom, Fulham and Swansea all aiming to get back to the Premier League and Watford already there - but he may end up choosing the club where he will get the most playing time.
Considering his age, Bryan only has a limited amount of senior football under his belt and needs to start playing regularly if he wants to get back to the Premier League and become a key player there, with or without his next team.
This is such an important move for his career - but with the new regime at Bramall Lane wanting no fuss this summer - this contract offer could be withdrawn at some point if they decide to pursue other options.